Lunarsea
Evolution Plan .TXT
6.9
Excellent musicianship, competant production and compelling songwriting characterize this effort from Lunarsea. This band makes a definate statement in this four song EP, and apart from a few niggling little annoyances, this is a satisfying listen. The style seems to be blackened prog metal or something like that. The singer is gargling a lot of spit and is pretty grim and pissed about things. The songs and musicians bounce around with gusto and style, epecially the guitarist, who is definitely capable and doesn't mind showing it. The bassist also gets out in the mix and fucks shit up. The keys don't stray very far from most metal ivory, but they lend a nice roundness to the sound. The drummer is excellent, but the triggers on his kit are too pronounced and make it sound very plastic. There are also some glaring edits here and there that are noticable enough to distract. One very unfortunate aspect of this group is their chorus vocals - clean and amateurish, far too high in the mix and in desperate need of effects or something. I mean awful, completely ripping you out of the song and leaving you asking "why the fuck would they do that? Who's fucking girlfriend told them this sounded good?". It's a question that needs answering. It's like putting the occasional speed bump along the quarter mile without telling the driver of the funny car. Here's hoping they figure something better out. Bottom line: As far as promos go I believe this is a keeper. As a demo I hope this is just an indicator of what this band could do with some real studio time. It's got confidence but could maybe up the fire a little. It bodes well for this band.
